Connect with new friends, build global networks and most importantly—have fun!
Each trimester the Griffith Mates host activities, networking events and day trips throughout Queensland for Griffith University's diverse student population. Our activities and events are hosted across Brisbane and Gold Coast campuses for both domestic and international students. We celebrate the rich, diverse culture at Griffith University through interactive games, activities and experiences that allow students to make new friendships and create lasting memories.
Trimester 1, 2025
The Griffith Mates are delighted to invite all currently enrolled Griffith University, Griffith College and GELI students (domestic and international) to explore and register for our range of exciting events and activities on offer in Trimester 1.
International Student Buddy
The Buddy Program is designed to help ease the transition to uni life and provide a safe and comfortable environment for new international students to ask questions about Griffith, life in Australia, as well as practise English. It’s also a great way to make friends!
O-Week
Program launch: Buddy Meet and Match Event
Weeks 1–3
Buddy group activities
Week 4
Final buddy group activity and end of program celebration
Walk and Talk with Mates
Join the Mates for a nature walk and talk experience with Dr Wade Hadwin or Professor Catherine Pickering, Griffith's very own environmental experts, as they shares their knowledge of the unique and fascinating flora and fauna we have on our campuses.
O-Week
- Thursday 27 February
- 10am to 11am
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast campuses
Aussie Snacks and Wildlife
Meet Griffith Mates and make new friends before you start your first week at University. Enjoy Australian animal encounters from 1pm to 2pm, sample Australian snack foods and participate in an Aussie Slang challenge!
O-Week
- Friday 28 February
- 1pm to 2:30pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast campuses
Study Abroad Meet and Greet
Are you a Study Abroad or Exchange student at Griffith? If so, join the Griffith Mates in Week 2 at the Unibar to meet your peers and Griffith Mates over a pizza lunch. The Griffith Mates will be catering for the pizza lunch, and you may choose to purchase your own beverages if you wish.
Week 2
- Monday 10 March
- 12pm to 1:30pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast campuses
- This event is open to Study Abroad & Exchange students only.
Global Fest
Our Griffith Mates will be showcasing their diverse nationalities at our Global Fest. Visit the Griffith Mates pop up stalls to learn about another culture, sample local snacks, and play some games. Everyone is welcome!
Week 2 & 4
- Wednesday 12 March & Thursday 27 March
- 1pm to 3pm
- Gold Coast - G11 Library Shard
- Brisbane South (Nathan) - N76 Campus Heart
Byron Bay Day trip
Join the Mates for Griffith Mates on a day trip to the world famous Byron Bay! Explore, swim, eat, relax, get a massage, hire a surf board or join the Griffith Mates on the beach for organised beach sports and to meet new people.
Week 2
- Saturday 15 March
- Departing Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast campuses
Check back here for further details and ticket purchases closer to the date.
Harmony Week Arts and Crafts
Harmony Week is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. Join the Griffith Mates to get together and connect with your peers by getting crafty and joining in on Arts and Crafts activities!
Week 3
- Wednesday 19 March
- 12pm to 2 pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast campuses
Get Active with Mates
Come along and join the Mates for this free social sport event. The Mates will host badminton, handball and volleyball. All abilities are welcome - this is not a competition event.
Week 5
- Tuesday 1 April
- 11am to 1pm
- Brisbane South (Mt Gravatt) and Gold Coast campuses
Parkrun
It's time to dust off your running shoes and get outdoors with the local community! Parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog, or run together on a 5 kilometre track.
Parkrun is positive, welcoming and inclusive, there is no time limit and no one finishes last. Everyone is welcome to come along.
Week 3
- Saturday 22 March
- 6:45am to 9am
- South Bank (Brisbane) and Main Beach (Gold Coast)
International Night
Come and celebrate the diverse cultures we have at Griffith University. The Griffith Mates are excited to host an International Night at the Nathan and Gold Coast Campuses. A light dinner will be provided with plenty of activities and opportunities to connect with new friends!
Week 5
- Thursday 3 April
- 6:30pm to 8:30pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast campuses
Petting Zoo Exam Stressbuster
Are exam stresses getting to you? There is no better way to bust those exam jitters than cuddling furry farm animals! Take a moment out of your studies to join us for the Griffith Mates Petting Zoo.
Week 13 (Study week)
- Tuesday 3 June
- 11am to 1pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast campuses
Professional Development Workshop
Are you looking for ways to enhance and strengthen your employability skills? Join Griffith Mates at a free professional development workshop, presented by Griffith's Career Development Consultant team.
Week 7
- Tuesday 22 April
- 11am to 1pm
- Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast campuses